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I Built a Shed (2020)

eduardosasso.co

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Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#81

Post by tharkun__ »

hinkley wrote: post #65
ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

I was going to post about code violations but I’ll just tuck it under yours here so we don’t flood the top level (although one could argue that this really deserves it). I had to stop reading r/diy because half the stuff in there made me angry. Especially people building lofts to store heavy stuff without knowing anything about construction. You can’t overlap rooflines like this. That’s how they allow people to build…

I like your parent's explanation of why screws are not allowed by code in some places and also saying that yes, screws actually can be used, if you use the right ones, even if they aren't allowed by code in some places.

I really like that because just mentioning code doesn't do any good. Just because code says something doesn't mean that it makes sense. There's tons of omissions in codes or stuff that is unnecessarily restrictive or way not enough to be safe.

Screws are the perfect example. If code forbids screws but you are going to use the proper screws that are (with good reason) allowed in other jurisdictions that has a completely different vibe to it than someone blogging about using dry wall screws to frame a house. One is a safety concern and why inspections are a good thing, while another is a minor case of ignoring code without any concerns and where an inspection would suck (if you were the homeowner doing some work yourself). If they want to use something that is more expensive and let's them do something themselves that they wouldn't be able to do at all if they had to use nails, more power to them! Change code to allow the right type of screws!

Your second part of the reply does the same, it sort of explains why you think it's a bad idea (and I agree that it is for various reasons).

Could you explain why it is not a good idea to overlap roof lines?

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#82

Post by hinkley »

kevan wrote: post #63
ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

As much as everyone loves to complain about red tape, building codes have a lot of useful info. Even if you're not going to pull permits (at your own risk) it's useful to be aware of what code requires and why. Specific examples from the post: * Plywood thickness required for floor decking * Min roof slope for asphalt shingles * Drip edge, where it's required and how to install it * Roof drainage - probably doesn't m…

Are termites a problem down there? Seems like he’s created a termite magnet with all that wood exposed to water damage.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#83

Post by hinkley »

rpnzl wrote: post #55
ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

Definitely want to use nails for framing (especially in zones that might experience the shearing forces of an earthquake) -- here are a couple of links so folks can see for themselves: [Project Farm]( https://youtu.be/qmajKElnwfE ) [Vancouver Carpenter]( https://youtu.be/5-PlR8tf84c )

You can burn up a lot of time on Project Farm. Beware/enjoy.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#84

Post by lazide »

hinkley wrote: post #65
ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

I was going to post about code violations but I’ll just tuck it under yours here so we don’t flood the top level (although one could argue that this really deserves it). I had to stop reading r/diy because half the stuff in there made me angry. Especially people building lofts to store heavy stuff without knowing anything about construction. You can’t overlap rooflines like this. That’s how they allow people to build…

Keep in mind, while yes this is a huge code issue mixing low voltage and high voltage - ‘it depends’ in a lot of jurisdictions on other elements.

Following is for other folks running across this, in case it helps them.

At least in California, I’m pretty sure it’s code compliant to use rated non-metallic conduit for outside high voltage runs for instance. That conduit is made of PVC. It’s the grey plastic electrical conduit at every hardware store (if branded as UV resistant/outdoor rated).

Normal PVC pipe (for water) falls apart at too low a temperature and becomes super brittle when exposed to Sunlight surprisingly quickly.

It’s a much better idea to use EMT or even ‘hard’ conduit depending on how it’s exposed, but it’s not required. EMF protection is nice, but I haven’t seen a such a requirement for power feeds in residential anyway. If using 3 phase and some industrial equipment I imagine you’d be a jerk to not do so, but most residential neighborhoods here have overhead unshielded lines anyway.

Running to a separate detached building has a bunch of rules around grounding (for which you’ll find multiple mutually exclusive and conflicting codes across the county). Many areas don’t have lightning suppression rules though.

Depending on exactly how the building is constructed (technically ‘mobile’ vs ‘fixed) also changes codes a lot. Running the equivalent of an extension cord to a ‘mobile’ structure (which can be functionally fixed) is perfectly fine as long as it’s GFCI protected for instance. Not that he did that.

Ideally it would be a separate sub panel, grounded and protected as such, with proper rated conduit, etc.

But the bar is a lot lower than what you’re saying if someone follows some basic guidelines. And can be done safely.

But yeah, Article Author - you’re going to get someone killed. Jesus.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#85

Post by 404mm »

hinkley wrote: post #65
ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

I was going to post about code violations but I’ll just tuck it under yours here so we don’t flood the top level (although one could argue that this really deserves it). I had to stop reading r/diy because half the stuff in there made me angry. Especially people building lofts to store heavy stuff without knowing anything about construction. You can’t overlap rooflines like this. That’s how they allow people to build…

I can comment on the second portion of this issue- never run Cat cables in parallel with electric cable.

You are forcing low voltage and high voltage cables to share their electromagnetic field. That’s never a good thing. It can lead to unstable connection all the way to frying your Ethernet card.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#86

Post by pkaye »

davidw wrote: post #32
psim1 wrote: post #27

Earlier quoted context omitted.

In my part of the US, a temporary structure does not require a permit or zoning allowance, while a permanent structure does. When we build sheds to meet the "temporary" definition, they are built on top of cinderblocks and not a poured concrete foundation. In this case, the author built his shed directly on top of his patio, so I am curious whether this would be considered a permanent or temporary installation.

This is from California which is, uh, not known for a light regulatory touch in things like permits or zoning.

I live in SF bay area and I can build a accessory structure of 150SF or smaller without a permit.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#87

Post by adolph »

ohazi wrote: post #33

Not that anything about this shed is built to code, but this takes the cake: > PRO TIP Use screws for everything; if you mess up, remove the screws and redo it; with nails, it’s a lot harder to do that. You absolutely should not do this for framing, and most building codes specify the type and size of nails that you must use when fastening load-bearing structural components. Screws are convenient, sure, but they are…

Something I appreciate about HN is the number of reverse-bikeshedding moments there are and for which the parent comment exemplifies. Points out a critical flaw and explains it in plain language with no rhetorical flourishes.

Bikeshedding describes our tendency to spend too much time discussing trivial matters, and too little time discussing important matters as a result. It describes the inverse relationship between time spent and the importance of an issue.

https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/bikeshedding/

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#88

Post by hinkley »

yashap wrote: post #66
singlow wrote: post #18

Earlier quoted context omitted.

It is usually against code to shed water toward the property line from that distance, so that may be the only option.

Could maybe slant it parallel to the house? Towards the photographer in these photos - not directly at either the house or the property line.

Well then he’d get wet going into the shed. He might not mind but his equipment will. Toward the fence or back would be better.

I also wonder from a water damage standpoint if he vented this or he’s counting on the door for ventilation. That won’t always be open.

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#89

Post by jefftk »

drodio wrote: post #10

I’m such a fan of this. Nicely done! I opted for a $3k Costco shed and went off grid with it even though it’s in my back yard: https://drodio.com/going-all-in-on-an-off-grid-workspace/ Off grid = No need for a permit but more importantly, a proof of concept that with starlink, this small office “shedquarters” could be placed anywhere in the world — say a beach in Costa Rica for example!

Being off-grid wouldn't normally get you around building code; where are you that it does?

Re: I Built a Shed (2020)

#90

Post by pengwing »

dev_tty01 wrote: post #67
pengwing wrote: post #38

If you are interested in this, could you please answer two questions (warning: My lack of understanding is usually offensive): - Do you regret having children? - Do you regret living together with your spouse?

So, by your thinking, anyone who leaves the home to go work in an office regrets having children and regrets living with their spouse. Yes, I agree with you, your lack of understanding is offensive.

I appreciate the downvotes as they confirm the emotional damage, but I am not a fan of misusing logical implications.

Obviously, in a pre-Covid world leaving your home to go to work was simply the societal expectation of how to acquire an income. WFH mostly came with economic downsides (lower salary, no promotions).

During Covid and post-Covid it's quite an interesting question why somebody would voluntarily lobby to add unpaid work time in the form of a commute to their day.

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